Do you want to start or advance a career focused on keeping digital systems and the people that use them safe? Earning a master’s in cybersecurity online is a great way to gain the knowledge and skills to take your next professional step. Even better, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the demand for information security analysts is projected to grow by 32% between 2022 and 2032.

An online master’s in cybersecurity can prepare you for a variety of roles on the digital front lines. Learn more about what you can expect from a cybersecurity program, find out projected career and salary outlooks, and browse programs to find an option that works for you.

The program cards/tables featured on this page were last updated in July 2022 For the most current program information, please refer to the official website of the respective school.

Finding the best online master’s in cybersecurity program for you

As you determine the best online master’s cybersecurity program for your goals, consider factors like the program’s length, schedule (part time or full time), and format (online or hybrid). It’s also important to check the program requirements, which may or may not include a minimum GRE score.

Five steps to choose the right online master’s in cybersecurity

Enrolling in an online cybersecurity graduate program is a big decision that requires a significant financial and time commitment. Here are five steps you can take to narrow down your choices and pick a degree program that will help you make your next professional move.

1. Consider your career goals. Look into different cybersecurity roles, including their responsibilities and education requirements, which can guide your criteria when browsing through different programs. Some may offer specialty tracks or courses that focus on different aspects of cybersecurity.
2. Understand the difference between undergraduate and graduate cybersecurity degrees. A master’s degree in cybersecurity will build on students’ existing experience with the topic, deepening their knowledge and expanding their skills. If you’re looking to gain foundational industry knowledge, a bachelor’s degree may be the best place to start.
3. Compare curricula. The courses that comprise your master’s degree in cybersecurity can differ across programs. Do you want to work on collaborative projects? Is specialization important to you? Take time to read class descriptions and the skills associated with each one. This way, you can pick a program that aligns with your goals and interests.
4. Ask about student support. If student support is important to you, make sure that you seek out programs that offer professional development, financial aid, and academic assistance. Some programs may provide job placement services and networking opportunities.
5. Pay attention to accreditation. Accrediting agencies set certain standards that institutions and programs must follow in order to receive and maintain accreditation. The two main agencies you should look out for are the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

The program cards/tables featured on this page were last updated in July 2022. For the most current program information, please refer to the official website of the respective school.

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Is an online cybersecurity master’s program right for you?

Earning your master’s in cybersecurity online gives you the flexibility to learn while attending to existing commitments, allowing you to fit classes and coursework into your schedule. Many online programs offer the same benefits and curricula as their on-campus counterparts, such as experienced faculty and opportunities to complete relevant projects.

An online master’s program may not be suitable for students who learn best in an in-person environment, prefer hands-on assistance, or enjoy a more traditional format. These are important considerations when choosing how and where to study for your master’s in cybersecurity.

What can you expect from your online master’s in cybersecurity?

In an online master’s program, your coursework may be delivered in a variety of formats, including live virtual classes, pre-recorded lectures, and supplemental resources. You may also be required to collaborate on projects with classmates and complete assignments outside of class. Admissions criteria for these online programs, like minimum GPA and work experience, will vary by school.

Curriculum

Cybersecurity combines a range of digital techniques and approaches, including forensic computing, cryptography, and security engineering. A master’s program can deepen your understanding of the field and prepare you for more advanced career opportunities. Here are some of the topics you may encounter during your studies:

• Cryptography: authentication protocols, hash functions, cryptanalysis, random numbers, steganography, and digital signatures
• Cloud computing: cloud computing models, characteristics of cloud platforms, typical development modes, and more
• Algorithm design and analysis: optimization algorithms, NP-completeness, greedy and graph algorithms, and advanced data structures
• Information ethics and policy: information policies for various organizations and what kind of social responsibility companies have in regard to cyber security
• Security engineering: foundational elements of security engineering, such as security protocol, access control, and interface problems

Faculty

Graduate programs can also provide students with direct access to experts in the cybersecurity field. Faculty members may have ample industry experience, which can enrich your learning and give more context with real-world situations and professional insights.

You can evaluate a program’s faculty and experience on the program website, or reach out to them directly via LinkedIn or email. Here are some questions you can ask to get a better idea of their expertise:

• Have you recently published any research or reports?
• What types of projects are you currently working on?
• Have you worked in an information or cybersecurity role in the past?
• How long have you been teaching in the technology and security field?

Online master’s in cybersecurity requirements

Every cybersecurity master’s program will come with its own specific conditions for application. Prospective students may be required to submit the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Official transcripts
• CV including industry experience
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement
• GRE/GMAT scores

Learners who are transitioning from a different industry, or those with a bachelor’s degree in a non-technical field, may benefit from a cybersecurity bootcamp, which can be a more accessible entry point than a master’s program.

What Are the Career Opportunities and Salary Outlook Associated With an Online Master’s in Cybersecurity?

As mentioned above, the BLS reports that employment for information security analysts is expected to increase by 32% between 2022 and 2032. Further, professionals in these roles earned a median annual salary of $112,000 in 2022.

After completing an online master’s in cybersecurity program, you may qualify for a variety of information technology jobs. Career paths to consider include:

• Cryptographer
• Security architect
• Forensic expert
• Source code auditor
• Security engineer
• Security manager

If you have chosen a specialized degree track, you could start or advance your career as an analyst, engineer, auditor, or manager. Salaries for each position will vary depending on the company, location, and industry, as well as your industry experience.

If you represent a university and would like to contact us regarding a listing, please send an email to mastersindatascience@2u.com. The university’s website is the best place to find the most up to date information on programs and offerings.

Last updated: January 2024